George Edozie and I cruised through Lagos in one of his luxurious SUVs from Alexis Galleries during his tenure as a consultant there. He was reshaping the gallery’s vision to champion African artists. George’s strategic PR efforts turned the quiet gallery in Victoria Island into a thriving hub for both seasoned and emerging artists, attracting praise for incorporating literature and photography. At the backbone is divine strength of upholding faith.

Words by Ireho Aito

George Edozie and I pulled out in one of his exquisite SUVs from Alexis Galleries on the Island of Lagos when he was still a consultant at the cultured gallery. Geroge was re – imagining and repositioning Alexis Galleries into the Pan – African scheme of promoting visual artists in Africa. In fact, his PR on the gallery in a quite and reseved street off highbrow Victoria Island, Lagos was indeed a top of the range promo campaign. He campaigns brought flourished moments to the gallery as more old and young artists were brought in for exhibitions.

“”Since I came, a lot has changed. I have been able to rebuild their minds and confidence, brought in the media and more professionals to make the place business – like. A lot of enthusiasts have commended the influence of literature and photography on the gallery. We are taking one step at a time. George was explaining while ordering for glass of beer and groundnuts to mix on the table where we chilled upstairs.

Driving off to keep an appointment elsewhere, George Edozie, a different breed of Nigerianness that defied conventionalism in Nigerian visual art space has had series of incredibly acclaimed exhibtions. The Onitsha born art consultant has wowed the art afficionados and purists with his style of strokes on canvas. He remained highly loved by collectors and media.

His art is different. “God is the ultimate provider and I have a lot to give” George remarked.

As we drove on Awolowo Way, Ikoyi, Goerge squizzed a pamphlet of Rev. Fr. JoseMaria Excrivia, the founder of ‘Opus Dei’ in my hands. “I try daily to praise God and live right. Yes, I attend Catholic Church Mass daily not because I am the best thing but to praise God daily. Whenever I remember the era of almost given – in, I realize the effect of prayers,” he explained.

It was indeed a smooth drive down to Onikan end of Lagos. The pamphlet is full of prayers and motivations for work and spirituality. Goerge remembered those days when business wasn’t looking lucrative. “My lovely wife remains an adorable woman in rain and sunshine. She was the pillar behind my success stories. She prophesied success and prosperity despite our challenges in our marital life. I couldn’t have asked for more. And the reason adherence to faith is key in my home. I am a devout Catholic. I really aporeciate God where we are today,” concluded the publisher.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!